The wait is finally over – the 2025 Rarotonga Football Season officially kicks off today, and we’re starting strong with a full line-up of grassroots and U18 Men’s matches set to bring plenty of energy, excitement, and community spirit to the pitch.
From 4:15pm this afternoon, the CIFA Complex will come alive with the sound of whistles, cheering families, and the determined footsteps of our youngest footballers as they represent their clubs with pride. This is Round 1 of the season, and after a month of solid preparation and training, the players are more than ready to get stuck into some serious football action.
The clubs participating this season include Avatiu FC, Nikao-Sokattak FC, Puaikura FC, Titikaveka FC, Matavera-Ngatangiia FC, and Tupapa-Maraerenga FC. These grassroots teams are the future of Cook Islands football, and the opening round is always a special occasion as new players step onto the field for the very first time while others return, eager to improve on last season’s performance.
In the U6 Mixed grade, we have a great opening match with last year’s champions Titikaveka FC facing off against Tupapa-Maraerenga FC. On Field 2, Avatiu FC will meet Puaikura FC in what promises to be another exciting clash. Matavera-Ngatangiia FC has the bye in this grade for Round 1, but they’ll be watching closely to see how the competition kicks off.
In the U8, U10 and U12 Mixed grades, fans can look forward to more exciting matchups across the grounds. Matavera-Ngatangiia FC will take on Nikao-Sokattak FC, while Titikaveka FC will go head-to-head with Tupapa-Maraerenga FC. Avatiu FC and Puaikura FC will meet again across these grades, continuing their strong rivalry in the junior divisions.
But the action doesn’t stop there. After our grassroots matches wrap up, our U18 Men’s teams will take to the field to round off a big day of football. At the CIFA Complex, Matavera-Ngatangiia FC will face Nikao-Sokattak FC at 4:55pm in what is expected to be a fast-paced and physical contest. Also at CIFA, Avatiu FC will take on Puaikura FC in a highly anticipated match that could set the tone for their season. Over at Takitumu School Grounds, Titikaveka FC will face Tupapa-Maraerenga FC from 4:30pm — a clash that always draws strong support from both communities.
With a full afternoon of matches, Round 1 promises to be an exciting start to the 2024 season. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, the competition fierce, and the community support stronger than ever. Whether you’re a proud parent, a club supporter, or just a fan of the game, we invite you to come on down and be part of the action.
CIFA Media
